Nebraskaland

50 Nebraskaland • August-September 2020 We've all been there. You've got a couple hours to fish after work, but in the rush to get to the water, your rod gets slammed in the car door, your rod guide breaks from bouncing around in the vehicle, or picks up a few new scratches. However, with under $20, you can build a rod tube that will keep your rods in mint condition for years to come. The most important material for the rod tube is ABS pipe. It's a common material used for plumbing applications, but it's also used in protective headgear and whitewater canoes. Its durability and low weight make it perfectly suited for a rod tube. First, measure the length of your rod. Many rods break down into sections, and I like to store my rods broken down so they take up less space. Keep in mind that one rod tube can hold up to five rods. I used a 4-inch diameter pipe to make mine, and it holds three rods in their rod socks. Once you have a measurement, buy a piece of pipe that accommodates the length. If the pipe is a bit too long, cut the excess with a saw. The rest is easy. Make sure the pipe is clean and glue the endcaps to either side. Once they are dry, cut a round piece of foam and insert it into either end of the tube for cushion. Mine came from the foam padding in a mail-order package. At this point, you are either done or can continue with a few customizations. I added a handle by braiding para-cord, drilling two small holes and attaching it with a knot on the inside of the pipe (there are many online instructional videos that demonstrate how to braid para-cord). In hindsight, I would omit the handle because with no holes, the entire setup is waterproof and you won't have to worry about mildew deteriorating your cork handles. With a marker, label the top of the tube so you know what rods are inside. Since making my rod tube two years ago, I've had no issues keeping my rods safe. Materials • A saw • ABS specific solvent-cement (glue) • ABS pipe with a diameter that suits your needs • 1 closed endcap • 1 open female-threaded endcap • 1 male-threaded end plug • Foam • Optional: Para-cord, spray-paint, fabric Learn to fish a new lure this fall. Regardless of the fish you're pursuing, by this time of year, fish have seen a variety of lures. Why not learn something new. A close friend started fishing a chatterbait last year for largemouths and, by this spring, has caught several Master Angler fish. The chatterbait has become his go-to lure. A few years ago, I performed a similar exercise and found how effective Texas-rigged weightless worms can be when fish get a little sluggish. When all else fails, I know I can slow down and pick up a few fish using this technique. This fall, I'm looking at a new creature bait. I couldn't help but get excited when, during a recent trip to Scheels, I saw a number of unique topwater options. From mice to baby turtles, I chose a spider imitation. And since I bought it, I can't stop staring at it. This fall, I'm going to find out if the fish are as excited as I am. A NEW LURE FOR FALL By Jeff Kurrus DIY ROD TUBES By Ryan Sparks can't stop staring at it MIXED BAG

• Cover